Durham College has negotiated a tentative agreement with Durham Region Transit (DRT) on the cost of the Universal Transit Pass (U-Pass) program.

All Durham College full-time students receive a U-Pass, which provides unlimited access during the academic year to DRT bus service in Durham Region and connection to GO Transit services. The cost for the U-Pass is included in full-time student ancillary fees, and provides transit service to students at a fraction of regular monthly student pass rates.

The increase amounts to approximately five per cent in each of three years, starting in September 2013. The DRT U-Pass program compares favourably relative to similar programs at other colleges in Ontario. Without the U-Pass program, students who use public transit in Durham Region would see their costs more than quadruple by paying regular fares, and an increased number of students would choose to drive to campus. This would put greater pressure on available campus parking and also increase the college’s carbon footprint.

Durham College has secured the best possible deal for student transit in Durham Region. Durham College and UOIT will continue to work with transit partners to ensure fast and safe service at the lowest possible cost. Durham College is committed to an open, transparent and accountable process that is supportive of students.